The Railway Board has approved a significant increase in porter charges at Central Railway (CR) stations. Effective immediately, porters at major stations will now receive Rs 85 per trip for handling up to 40 kilograms of luggage, a substantial increase from the previous rate of Rs 40. At smaller stations, the new charge is set at Rs 75 per trip for the same weight.
Implementation of Revised Rates
The revised rates will be implemented across major stations served by long-distance trains on Central Railway, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Dadar Terminus, Thane, Kalyan, and Lokmanya Tilak Terminus. The increase in porter charges aims to reflect the rising cost of services and improve the livelihoods of porters.
Concerns from Porters
Despite the increase, some porters have expressed dissatisfaction with the new rates. Anil Nagare, a porter at Dadar Terminus, voiced concerns over the lack of consultation with the porter association regarding the revised charges. He pointed out that the demand for porters has been declining due to the increased availability of lifts and escalators at stations and the growing preference for wheeled luggage among passengers.
Nagare’s remarks highlight ongoing issues within the porter community, including challenges related to changes in passenger behavior and station infrastructure that impact their traditional role. The concerns underscore the need for a broader discussion on the future role of porters and how their services can be adapted to meet evolving travel patterns.
The Railway Board’s decision reflects an effort to address the economic needs of porters, but the feedback from the ground suggests that further dialogue and adjustments may be necessary to fully address the challenges faced by those in the profession.